The Crown Prince has been leading a major drive to modernize Saudi society and boost the economy since his sudden appointment on June 21.

The reforms are in line with a wide-ranging plan announced by the 32-year-old to bring social and economic change to the oil-dependent kingdom, known as Vision 2030.

Despite the recent announcements, noted the BBC, women still face severe restrictions in the country, which enforces a strict form of Sunni Islam known as Wahhabism.

Women have to adhere to strict dress codes and must not associate with unrelated men. If they want to travel, work or access healthcare they must be accompanied by - or receive written permission from - a male guardian.

Even before the recent announcements, Saudi Arabia in recent years introduced several ambitious government reforms aimed at boosting female employment.